Minister for Health and Social Care, Kate Beecroft MHK, said: "I am aware of the strength of feeling by some in our community about this issue and the high regard they have for the current provider Bridgewater.

'Exemplary service'

"I would like to place on record the department's thanks for their exemplary service."

Bridgewater also had an appeal turned down.

Health chiefs said "those who travel regularly should not see any change in service, which will include full assistance and door-to-door collection and drop-off as standard".

ComCab has 15 years' experience of transferring patients for the North West Ambulance Service and already delivers more than 900 transfers a week.

General manager Karen Long said: "I believe our record and reputation demonstrate our ability to deliver a first-class service for Isle of Man patients and their escorts."